Of those players, Osborne, on the comeback from a knee reconstruction, will miss the start of the regular season while it's uncertain whether Hodge, coming off knee surgery, and Puopolo will make it back for round one.

The Bulldogs will have ex-West Coast recruit Koby Stevens represent them for the first time.

Defensive stalwart Dale Morris, who returned last weekend after an 18-month absence due to major leg injuries, has again been named.

But key position player Tom Williams is still missing with a bruised heel.